Mounting a Blink XT Security Camera Outdoors

The Blink XT is a uniquely powered and unusually shaped security camera. Many home security camera manufacturers introduce a successful indoor version of their camera only to miss the outdoor opportunity. Blink introduced their outdoor version soon after realizing success with their indoor model. The Blink XT Outdoor/Indoor Home Security Camera System is intended for outdoor or indoor use.

Today, we’re going to discuss how to mount a Blink XT security camera outdoors. The Blink XT comes with a mounting bracket that requires a screw to fasten it to a flat surface. So we’ll talk about how to best position the camera, and look at some optional methods for mounting the Blink XT including one or two ways to avoid using the screw, which if you have aluminum siding isn’t going to look too wonderful upon removal.

Selecting the Mounting Location

Let’s start by looking at some important Blink XT facts that are pertinent to selecting a mounting location. The camera sports a 110 degree field of view. So it isn’t the widest field of view in outdoor cameras as both the nest Cam Outdoor and Arlo Pro check in with 130 degree capability. However, it is sufficient for placing the camera into a corner and will capture a rather wide swath of territory outdoors.

Most home security cameras detect motion most effectively when a subject crosses the field of view versus moving towards the camera. Choose a location that will detect motion when someone crosses the field of view, not walking into towards it. If possible, place the camera at least eight feet high. This helps facilitate getting a better view. It also makes it more difficult for someone to steal the camera.

Blink provides a plastic multi angle bracket that snaps onto the back of the Blink XT. The other end of that bracket has a hole that is used by the mounting screw. The intention is to screw the mounting bracket onto a flat surface then snapping the Blink XT onto the mounting bracket. Keep in mind that you will need to remove the camera from the mounting bracket periodically for battery replacement. You will pull the bottom of the Blink XT away from the mount when it’s time to replace the batteries.

The size of the camera is 2.8 x 2.8 x 1.34 inches (71 x 71 x 34 mm). So it’s a perfect square and too thick. This is an unusual shape for a camera. Most security cameras are somewhat cylindrical and somewhat deeper in size. The camera is powered by a pair of AA lithium batteries. All of this, including the batteries weighs only 3.3 ounces. Blink figured out how to jam a lot of capability and sufficient power in a very small footprint.

Using the Included Mount

The included Blink Mounting Bracket is secured to a flat surface by pushing a screw through the end that isn’t attached to the camera and driving it into a wall. The mounting bracket included with the Blink XT isn’t suited for attachment to a ceiling. It’s simply not long enough and if attached to a ceiling, you will be seeing the tops of people’s heads. You need a longer mount for a ceiling.

You can potentially forego the mounting bracket altogether, and some certainly do. Just stand the Blink XT up on a table or any flat surface. The disadvantage, especially for outdoor use will be that its insecure and someone could easily walk off with the camera or the wind could blow into your neighbor’s yard.

Alternative Mounts for the Blink XT

Fortunately, there are some alternative mounts to consider with the Blink XT. Consider these mounts when you want to avoid making holes in the wall or want additional positioning flexibility versus the included mounting bracket. You’ll notice these mounts are marketed for a Blink XT, most often these are marketed for phones. However because of the unusual shape of the Blink XT, these will also work on the camera in addition to a phone.

First let’s look at a mount that’s good for attaching the Blink XT to a ceiling. Up for consideration is the RoadVise Wall or Car Mount for Phones. It combines an expandable cradle with a surface mount. The included cradle opens to four inches which is large enough to fit a Blink XT. The mounting arm swivels at the base and tip to enable getting the best angle. The length of the mount is sufficiently long to allow the Blink to provide useful video since the camera can be positioned nearly vertical to the subject.

Next up is a mount that can be used outdoors but no screws are needed because it’s a suction mount. The photo that accompanies this article features the Arkon MegaGrip Suction Cup Windshield and Dash Mount. The mount features a vacuum locked suction assembly attached to a pivoting arm. The camera fits inside the cradle and can swivel into any orientation. The cradle opens to 3.4 inches and opens with a push of a button. It will easily fit the Blink XT with room to spare. The mount comes with an adhesive disk suitable for textured surfaces which enable the suction cup to be deployed.

Lastly is a nice option for those not wanting to put holes in their siding. Consider an adhesive mount with weatherproof case. We have recommended these before for the Blink Indoor Camera. The Arkon Adhesive Motorcycle Gas Tank GPS Mount typically is used to attach to a motorcycle’s gas tank using Very High Bond (VHB) adhesive. However, it can be used to hold a Blink XT too. The case features a clear lens so the camera’s lens can see what’s outside. There are foam pads included that should be used to get the camera close to the clear lens. The case zippers closed. There is a port on the bottom of the case that can be used to run wires the Blink XT uses batteries so point the port downwards to keep water out.

Follow Us:

MountGuys.com is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to Amazon.com.

Disclosure: Some of the links in the article above are affiliate links. This means if you click on the link and purchase the item, we will receive an affiliate commission.

All data and information provided on this site is for informational purposes only. Any product claim, information or other representation about a product or service should be verified with the manufacturer, provider or party referenced. MountGuys.com and MFX2 LLC will not be liable for any errors, omissions, or delays in this information or any losses, injuries, or damages arising from its display or use. All information is provided on an as-is basis.